The Ministry of Justice and Online Procedure Rule Committee are reforming private family law to enable earlier resolution of disputes, with focus on improving access to justice and reducing court delays. Recent parliamentary questions highlight concerns about CAFCASS (Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service) neutrality, safeguarding balance, and potential bias against fathers, particularly regarding parental responsibility retention. The Courts and Tribunals Bill contains relevant provisions under clause 17.
To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, how many Parental Orders were issued in 2025, 2024 and 2023.
To ask His Majesty's Government whether there has been an impact assessment of clause 17 of the Courts and Tribunals Bill on fathers in prison who are trying to retain parental responsibility.
To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, what training is provided to staff of CAFCASS on unconscious bias, with particular reference to fathers in family court proceedings.
To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, how CAFCASS ensures that safeguarding considerations are balanced with the rights of both parents to maintain meaningful relationships with children.
To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, what guidance is issued to Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service officers on ensuring neutrality between parents in family court proceedings.
To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, how many complaints have been made against CAFCASS in each of the last five years alleging (a) discrimination and (b) bias against fathers; and how many such complaints were upheld.